Can Openers

Best Can Openers in 2025: Reviews, Buying Guide, and Top Picks for Every Kitchen

Introduction: Why a great can opener still matters

Even in an era of high-tech kitchens, a reliable can opener remains one of the most used tools at home. Whether you’re opening a can of tomatoes for a weeknight pasta or a tin of beans for a campfire side, the right can opener saves time, prevents mess, and keeps your fingers safe. In this guide we walk through the best manual and electric can openers—including top models like the WMF Profi Plus, Zyliss Lock-n-Lift, Brabantia range, and Zwilling Pro—so you can choose the tool that fits your kitchen style and budget.

How to use this guide

We’ll review popular models, break down the features that really matter, compare manual and electric options, and give practical tips for maintenance and safe use. Expect straightforward pros and cons, realistic size guidance in inches, and clear buying advice so you can find the best can opener for your needs.

Top manual can openers reviewed

Manual can openers are compact, inexpensive, and highly dependable. Below are standout models—many of which are popular across retailers—for durability, comfort, or innovation.

WMF Profi Plus Can Opener — about 9.1 inches, stainless steel

The WMF Profi Plus is built with heavy-duty stainless steel and a long handle that gives great leverage. At roughly 9.1 inches in length, it feels sturdy in hand and handles thicker can rims with ease. If you open cans frequently, the solid construction and low maintenance make it a long-term winner. Expect smooth cutting and a balanced feel, though its weight can be noticeable if you prefer ultra-light tools.

Zyliss Lock-n-Lift Can Opener — about 7.3 inches, white-grey

Zyliss’s Lock-n-Lift is designed for safety: it clamps onto the rim and lifts the lid without leaving sharp edges exposed. At around 7.3 inches, it’s compact and user-friendly for cooks who want a safer finish. Its plastic and metal hybrid body keeps the price reasonable, but check that the clamping mechanism suits the thickness of your cans—some very thin cans may slip.

Brabantia Tasty Universal Opener — compact, gray

Brabantia’s Tasty Universal Opener is a simple, sleek design focused on usability. It’s small and light, perfect for minimalist kitchens or for stashing in a drawer for quick access. Though not as heavy-duty as some full-sized metal openers, it does the job cleanly for typical household cans.

Heirol Steely Can Opener — about 6.3 inches

The Heirol Steely is a pocket-friendly option at roughly 6.3 inches. If you need a can opener for camping or a small kitchen, this model’s compact footprint and basic turning mechanism will do fine. It’s not intended for industrial usage but will handle everyday cans comfortably.

Brabantia Universal Opener — white and stainless options

Brabantia’s universal models—available in white or stainless finishes—strike a balance between affordability and function. They’re ergonomic, easy to clean, and designed to fit a wide variety of cans. If aesthetics matter, Brabantia’s thoughtful finishes match many modern kitchens while performing consistently.

Joseph Joseph Cando Plus — about 7.1 inches, dark grey

Joseph Joseph’s Cando Plus pairs compact size (about 7.1 inches) with extra convenience. Expect comfortable grips and a mechanism that reduces hand strain. It’s especially good for people who value ergonomics, as the design often includes soft-touch materials and a let-go latch for easy disposal of lids.

Zwilling Pro Can Opener — about 8.5 inches

Zwilling’s Pro can opener tends to be a premium manual pick. At about 8.5 inches, it’s robust with precision-cut gears for smooth rotation. If you want something that feels professional and lasts a long time, Zwilling delivers with high-grade steel and a precise fit.

Additional manual picks: Profile, Dorre, Funktion, and Oprah

Other strong options include Brabantia’s Profile series (stainless steel versions for durability), Dorre models like the Bula opener around 8.3 inches for combined can-and-bottle use, Funktion’s steel can opener for budget-conscious buyers, and Dorre’s Oprah 7.1-inch stainless-steel option for a sleek, reliable tool. These give you everything from budget functionality to multipurpose utility in one device.

Best electric can openers to consider

Electric can openers are ideal if you open cans regularly, have limited hand strength, or prefer one-handed operation. Brands like Cuisinart and KitchenAid often lead here, but there are also compact plug-in models for small kitchens or RVs. Look for models with stable bases, easy-to-clean cutting heads, and a quiet motor. Electric units add convenience, but they require counter space and a power source—trade-offs worth noting.

What to look for when buying a can opener

Choosing the right can opener is about matching features to your habits. Here’s a checklist to keep top of mind when comparing models.

Durability and material

Stainless steel is the gold standard for durability and rust resistance. If you want an opener that will last for years, prioritize solid metal construction and replaceable blades where available. Coated metals and plastics are fine for occasional use, but they may wear sooner.

Comfort and grip

Look for padded handles and long levers if you have weaker hands. Ergonomic grips reduce strain and make opening large cans easier. Compact clamshell designs are cute, but less comfortable for extended use.

Safety features

Safety-lift designs and smooth-edge cutters leave lids without sharp edges—great for households with kids. A good can opener either removes the lid entirely or cuts underneath the rim so the top is safe to touch.

Compatibility and size

Check the length and jaw capacity: smaller 6–8 inch openers are portable and great for small cans, while 8–9 inch models deliver more leverage for heavy lids. If you often use large or irregular cans, a longer-handled unit will be more comfortable.

Easy cleaning

Openers with removable cutting heads or dishwasher-safe handles make cleanup effortless. Avoid models with lots of nooks where food residue can hide if you want low-maintenance care.

Extra tools and multi-function

Some openers double as bottle openers or include jar grips. If you value pared-down cupboards, choose a multifunction tool, but ensure it doesn’t compromise on its primary role: opening cans smoothly.

Manual vs electric: which should you choose?

Manual openers are compact, affordable, and reliable—perfect for occasional use, campers, or minimal kitchens. Electric models are more expensive but offer effortless operation and speed, ideal for frequent cooking or households with limited hand strength. Think about how often you open cans, available storage, and whether one-handed operation matters most.

Maintenance tips to keep your can opener working longer

Routine care extends the life of your can opener. After each use, wipe the blade and gear with a damp cloth, then dry thoroughly to prevent rust. For tougher residue, use a small brush and a little dish soap. Lubricate metal gears occasionally with a food-safe oil to keep turning smooth. Replace blades when they become dull—dull cutting heads increase effort and can bend lids.

How to open different types of cans safely

For standard cans, clamp the opener securely, turn at a steady pace, and lift the lid away from the food using tongs or a spoon. For smooth-edge openers, follow the manufacturer’s steps to ensure the lid seals off cleanly. For odd-shaped or deep cans, use a long-handled opener or an electric model with stable footing to prevent slips.

Budget picks vs premium picks: what to expect

On a tight budget, you’ll find basic steel or plastic manual openers that get the job done for occasional use. Mid-range picks like Zyliss and Brabantia add safety and better ergonomics. Premium picks from Zwilling or WMF offer superior materials, precision engineering, and long-term durability. Decide whether you want a tool that will last for decades or a simple, cost-effective model for occasional tasks.

Where to compare prices and find the best deals

Comparison sites and major marketplaces are good places to compare specs, customer reviews, and prices quickly. Look for seasonal sales and bundled kitchenware offers if you’re outfitting a new kitchen. When shopping, check product dimensions in inches to ensure the opener fits your hands and matches the size of cans you use most.

Final pick recommendations

If you want a single recommendation: choose a stainless-steel manual opener in the 8–9 inch range if you value durability and leverage—Zwilling Pro or WMF Profi Plus fit that profile. If safety and compactness matter, the Zyliss Lock-n-Lift is an excellent choice around 7.3 inches. For budget-conscious buyers who still want quality, Brabantia’s universal openers or Dorre’s multipurpose models give good performance without breaking the bank. For frequent can users or those with limited hand strength, an electric model from a reputable kitchen brand will be worth the extra counter space.

Quick buying checklist

Before you buy, ask yourself: Do I open cans often? Do I need one-handed operation? Do I prefer a smooth-edge finish? What space do I have for storage? Answering these will narrow the field quickly. Check dimensions in inches, materials, safety features, and whether the blade is replaceable or dishwasher-safe.

Conclusion

Picking the right can opener is less about flashy features and more about fit and reliability. Whether you opt for a compact Zyliss, a heavy-duty WMF, a versatile Brabantia, or a premium Zwilling, choose the model that matches how you cook, how often you open cans, and how much storage or counter space you have. With a little attention to materials, ergonomics, and safety features, you’ll find a can opener that makes everyday tasks easier and more pleasant.